FDA tightens restrictions on Essure birth control device

April 9, 2018 – CNN – By Jessica Ravitz – FDA tightens restrictions on Essure birth control device – Since it was approved to go on the market in 2002, Essure, an implantable permanent contraceptive device, has been plagued by controversy. Thousands of women have filed grievances with the US Food and Drug Administration about unintended pregnancies, miscarriages, stillbirths, severe pain and bleeding.

In its latest response to ongoing concerns, the FDA issued an order Monday to restrict sales and distribution of the device.

“We’ve been closely evaluating new information on the use of Essure, and based on our review of a growing body of evidence, we believe this product requires additional, meaningful safeguards to ensure women are able to make informed decisions about risk when considering this option,” FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb said in a written statement.